Tuesday, April 26, 2016

28 April 2016: Why is India global No.1 in anaemia prevalence? How can we change it?

K Kalaivani
Nutrition Foundation of India

Abstract:
India is among countries with the highest prevalence of anaemia, and as a population billionaire, accounts for the largest number of anaemic persons in the world.

Indians have been in the forefront of research on anaemia and have helped in evolving guidelines for its prevention, detection and management. India was the first developing country to initiate a national programme for prevention and control of anemia in 1973, which has been successfuly adopted by several other developing countries as well.

While there has been reduction in the severity of anaemia in India over the last six decades, there has been no reduction in its overall prevalence. Despite detection, prevention and treatment protocols being in place, India continues to hold the global no. 1 position in prevalence of anaemia. At the seminar Dr. Kalaivani examines this paradox and explores how the iron plus initiative could be a game changeer.